The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018 Guidance notes for conditions for providing boarding for ...
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The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018 Guidance notes for conditions for providing boarding for cats July 2018
1
Contents
Introduction .................................................................................................. 3
What is in and out of the scope: Providing boarding for ca ts ............................ 3
In scope criteria ...................................................................................... 4
Out of scope criteria ................................................................................ 4
Overview of the conditions and explanatory guidance ..................................... 5
Part A – General Conditions (Schedule 2 of the Regulations) ....................... 6
1.0 Licence Display ............................................................................... 6
2.0 Records .......................................................................................... 6
3.0 Use, number and type of animal ....................................................... 6
4.0 Staffing ........................................................................................... 7
5.0 Suitable Environment....................................................................... 8
6.0 Suitable Diet ................................................................................. 12
7.0 Monitoring of behaviour and training of animals .............................. 13
8.0 Animal Handling and Interactions ................................................... 14
9.0 Protection from Pain, Suffering, Injury and Disease ......................... 15
10.0 Emergencies .............................................................................. 19
Part B – Specific conditions: providing boarding in catteries for cats
(Schedule 4, Part 1 of the Regulations) ..................................................... 21
2.0 Suitable environment ..................................................................... 21
3.0 Monitoring of behaviour and training ............................................... 24
4.0 Records ........................................................................................ 25
5.0 Protection from pain, injury, suffering and disease .......................... 26
Cattery Units .............................................................................................. 27
Higher Standards ........................................................................................ 32
2
Introduction
1. This guidance is aimed at local authority inspectors in England and should be read in
conjunction with the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals)
(England) Regulations 2018 (SI No.486) (1). Guidance documents are available for
each licensable activity under the regulations: dog breeding, pet selling, hiring out
horses, boarding for dogs, boarding for cats, home boarding for dogs, dog day care
and keeping or training animals for exhibition. There is also Procedural Guidance on
the general issues that apply to all activities including on how to assess the star rating
of establishments.
What is in and out of the scope: Providing
boarding for cats
2. Schedule 1 of the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England)
Regulations 2018 (“the regulations”) defines the licensable activities for each sector. In
all cases except dog breeding, the licensable activity is restricted to businesses or
those operating on a commercial basis.
Business Test
3. The Regulations specify two example business tests to be considered when
determining whether an activity is considered commercial, and thus within scope. They
are not the exclusive factors to be considered but are examples and other factors, such
as those listed in the nine badges of trade set out by HMRC, are also relevant. The
regulations include the following on this issue:
4. The circumstances which a local authority must take into account in determining
whether an activity is being carried on in the course of a business for the purposes of
this Schedule include, for example, whether the operator—
(a) makes any sale by, or otherwise carries on, the activity with a view to making a
profit, or
(b) earns any commission or fee from the activity.
5. This guidance is intended to assist inspectors in determining whether or not an activity
may be subject to the regulations noting that ultimately there will be an element of
judgement required.
6. Set out below are examples of the type of activity that should or should not be
considered within the scope of the regulations and the indicators that should be
considered when deciding whether a licence is required.
7. Local authority inspectors should take account of all elements of the advice below and
weigh them against each other before reaching a decision as to whether an activity
falls within scope of the regulations.
(1) Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018
3
Providing or arranging for the provision of boarding for cats or dogs: definition in
Schedule 1 of the regulations
“4. Providing or arranging for the provision of accommodation for other people’s cats or
dogs in the course of a business on any premises where the provision of that accommodation
is a purpose of the business.
5. The activity described in paragraph 4 does not include keeping a dog or cat on any
premises pursuant to a requirement imposed under, or having effect by virtue of, the Animal
Health Act 1981(2).”
In scope criteria
Activities that fulfil one or more of the following criteria are subject to licensing:
1. Businesses which provide accommodation for other people’s cats and dogs, where
the provision of that accommodation is part or solely the activity of the business.
2. Businesses which arrange for the provision of accommodation for other people’s cat
and dogs, for example, businesses which connect pet owners with people willing to
look after their animals for no fee (just minor expenses). The accommodation
provided in these circumstances must meet the conditions in Schedule 1 and 4, and
it is the responsibility of the business to ensure that this is the case. The local
authority needs to be satisfied that the conditions are met in all of the
accommodation provided. The business must provide (and keep updated) a list of
their associated premises. This applies regardless of whether the business is
arranging for dog boarding in kennels, cat boarding, home boarding or dog day care
3. Businesses which provide overnight accommodation for cats in purpose built cattery
units.
4. Home boarding of cats, where the cats are kept in purpose built cattery units and
not in the domestic home.
Out of scope criteria
Activities that fulfil one or more of the following criteria are not subject to licensing:
1. Businesses where accommodation is provided for other people’s cats and dogs, but
where the provision of that accommodation is not the purpose of that business, for
example, veterinary practices where the accommodation provided is part of the
treatment of the animal.
2. Home boarding of cats within a domestic setting is not permitted.
3. Businesses that look after the cat within its normal place of residence (i.e. cat
sitters).
Guideline indicators of “out of scope” activities
The following may assist consideration of the criteria listed above:
The Government announced in Budget 2016 a new allowance of £1,000 for trading
income from April 2017. Anyone falling under this threshold would not need to be
considered in the context of determining whether they are a business.
(2) Animal Health Act 1981
4
Overview of the conditions and explanatory
guidance
1. This document outlines the conditions that must be complied with in order to receive an
animal activities licence for the activity of providing boarding for cats. The conditions
set out in schedules to the regulations are given in bold throughout this document,
whilst the explanatory guidance notes are provided as bullet points.
2. In order to receive a licence a business will need to meet all of the minimum standards
outlined in this document. In addition, businesses are encouraged to apply higher
standards. A business that meets the higher standards will be able to gain a 4 or 5 star
rating in the Animals Activity Star Rating System and will qualify for a longer licence
(e.g. two or three years as opposed to a one-year licence) and thereby pay a lower
licence fee.
3. Whilst applying the higher standards is optional, certain standards are required in order
to attract the higher star ratings. To distinguish required higher standards from optional
ones they have each been given a specific colour which is used in each guidance
document. Higher standards that appear in blue text are required in order for a
business to be classed as high standard, whereas those that appear in red text are
optional. See the Procedural Guidance for a full explanation of the Animals Activity Star
Rating System and how it incorporates a risk assessment of the business.
4. Paragraph numbering in the following parts of this guidance document relate to the
numbering of the conditions in the relevant Schedules of the regulations.
5
Part A – General Conditions (Schedule 2 of the
Regulations)
1.0 Licence Display
Condition (paragraph numbers relate to the numbering in the Regulations)
1.1 A copy of the licence must be clearly and prominently displayed on any
premises used for the licensable activity.
Guidance
The licence must be displayed in a public-facing area of the premises such as the
entrance or reception area.
Condition
1.2 The name of the licence holder followed by the number of the licence holder’s
licence must be clearly and prominently displayed on any website used in
respect of the licensable activity
2.0 Records
Conditions
2.1 The licence holder must ensure that at any time all the records that the
licence holder is required to keep as a condition of the licence are available
for inspection by an inspector in a visible and legible form or, where any such
records are stored in electronic form, in a form from which they can readily be
produced in a visible and legible form.
2.2 The licence holder must keep all such records for at least three years
beginning with the date on which the record was created.
Guidance
Electronic records must be backed up
3.0 Use, number and type of animal
Condition
3.1 No animals or types of animal other than those animals and types of animal
specified in the licence may be used in relation to the relevant licensable
activity.
Guidance
This licence applies only to the boarding of cats. However, if there are welfare
concerns relating to other animals then the inspector should inform either the
relevant person in the Local Authority, the Police or suitable animal welfare
organisation as appropriate.
Condition
3.2 The number of animals kept on any premises at any time must not exceed the
maximum that is reasonable taking into account the facilities and staffing.
6
Guidance
The licence conditions must clearly state the numbers of cats permitted at the
premises. Undeclared breach of this number can invalidate the licence, especially if
not reflected in increased staffing levels.
This figure must include any other cats kept within the licensed cattery which are
not there for boarding.
4.0 Staffing
Condition
4.1 Sufficient numbers of people who are competent for the purpose must be
available to provide a level of care that ensures that the welfare needs of all
the animals are met.
Guidance
Staffing levels must ensure that each cat’s individual welfare needs can be fully met
whilst under the care of the establishment and animal welfare requirements are not
compromised through lack of staff.
If there is evidence that the welfare needs of the animals are not being met, the
individual local authority should consider the staffing levels in relation to:
The size of premises
The layout of the premises i.e. how many cats may be permitted in each separate
area
The qualifications/experience of the staff
Advice from the local authority’s veterinary officer
Use of part-time or voluntary staff
As a guide, the ratio of staff to cats in established businesses will be around 1:25
Higher Standard
Staffing levels will be up to 1 full-time equivalent attendant per 20 cats kept or a
higher ratio of qualified staff.
Condition
4.2 The licence holder or a designated manager and any staff employed to care
for the animals must have competence to identify the normal behaviour of the
species for which they are caring and to recognise signs of, and take
appropriate measures to mitigate or prevent, pain, suffering, injury, disease
or abnormal behaviour.
Guidance
Suitable and sufficient training of staff must be demonstrated to have been carried
out in the following areas:
Cat welfare, including recognising poor welfare, and understanding the five welfare
needs;
Cat handling;
Cat behaviour;
7 Cleanliness and hygiene;
Feeding and food preparation;
Disease control;
Recognition and first aid treatment of sick animals.
Training must be a minimum of an OFQUAL regulated level 2 qualification in a
relevant subject, or clear evidence of knowledge and experience.
Higher Standard
A member of staff with an OFQUAL regulated Level 3 qualification in a relevant
subject must be present during the working day.
Condition
4.3 The licence holder must provide and ensure the implementation of a written
training policy for all staff.
Guidance
The training policy must be reviewed and updated on an annual basis and must
include:
o annual appraisal
o planned continued professional development
o recognition of knowledge gaps
o Use of online courses and literature
o If no staff are employed the licence holder must demonstrate their own
knowledge development.
It will be applicable to any members of staff and can be shown by engagement with
courses, written or online learning, keeping up to date with any research or
developments for specific species and the documentation of the annual appraisal.
Evidence of staff attendance or completion of the training must be provided
5.0 Suitable Environment
Condition
5.1 All areas, equipment and appliances to which the animals have access must
present minimal risks of injury, illness and escape. They must be constructed
in materials that are robust, safe and durable, in a good state of repair and
well maintained.
Guidance
Timber, if used, must be of good quality, well-kept and any damaged areas sealed
or over clad. Wood must be smooth and treated and properly maintained to render it
impervious.
Interior surfaces, including floors, must be smooth, impervious and able to be
disinfected, where appropriate. Floors must have a non-slip, solid surface. Junctions
between sections must be coved or sealed.
There must not be any sharp edges, projections, rough edges or other hazards
which present risk of injury to a cat.
8 Windows must be escape-proof.
Doors must be strong enough to resist scratching and must be capable of being
effectively secured.
Access doors must not be propped open.
All wire mesh/fencing must be strong and rigid and kept in good repair to provide an
escape-proof structure.
External doors/gates must be lockable and staff must have easy access to keys in
case of emergency.
Gaps or apertures must be small enough to prevent a cat’s head passing through,
or entrapment of any limb or body parts
Unit doors should open inwards to protect the health and safety of attending staff.
Where this is not feasible there must be a documented procedure in place to
demonstrate the safety of staff.
Door openings must be constructed such that the passage of water/waste is not
impeded, or allowed to gather due to inaccessibility.
Where cats have access to mesh, the diameter of the wire must not be less than 1.6
mm (16 gauge welded mesh). Mesh size must not exceed 25 mm in one direction
and should be positioned on the inside of the framework of runs to prevent damage
of uprights by cats scratching any woodwork.
Any drainage required must be effective to ensure there is no standing or pooling of
liquids. A minimum gradient of 1:80 is advised to allow water to run off. Waste water
must not run off into adjacent pens/cat units.
Units must open onto secure corridors or other secure areas so that cats are not
able to escape from the premises.
Units should be designed so cats can exercise and be handled within the unit.
Higher Standard
Cats must be provided with a design and layout that provides them with choice. This
can be achieved by, for example, inclusion of raised platforms.
Condition
5.2 Animals must be kept at all times in an environment suitable to their species
and condition (including health status and age) with respect to—
(a) their behavioural needs,
(b) its situation, space, air quality, cleanliness and temperature,
(c) the water quality (where relevant),
(d) noise levels,
(e) light levels,
(f) ventilation.
Guidance
Cats must not be restricted to areas when climatic conditions may cause them
distress. Insulation and temperature regulation in the sleeping area must aim to
9keep the temperature between 15 degrees and 26 degrees and never below the
absolute minimum of 10 degrees.
Additional heat may be in the form of a heated bed/pad, but these must not be the
main source of heat for the cats. The cat must be able to remove itself from the
source of heat.
Cats must be monitored to check if they are too hot or too cold. If an individual cat is
showing signs of heat or cold intolerance steps must be taken to ensure the welfare
of the cat.
Cats must not be exposed to excessive or continuous noise (such as dogs barking).
Cats must not be exposed to draughts.
Ventilation must be provided in interior areas to avoid excess humidity
Higher Standards
Ventilation must be a managed, fixed or portable, air system to ensure appropriate
temperatures are maintained in all weathers. This can be an air conditioning unit or
use of removable fans.
Temperature in the sleeping environment must be above 18°C.
Condition
5.3 Staff must ensure that the animals are kept clean and comfortable
Guidance
The licence holder and staff must ensure that cats benefit from adequate routine
grooming and other health regimes as needed e.g. cleaning of eyes or keeping long
fur from matting and inspection for parasites.
Cats must not routinely be removed from their cattery unit whilst it is being cleaned
unless it is causing stress for the cat and there is a safe alternative temporary unit.
Condition
5.4 Where appropriate for the species, a toileting area and opportunities for
toileting must be provided.
Guidance
For cats a litter tray must be provided. Scented litter must not be used.
Condition
5.5 Procedures must be in place to ensure accommodation and any equipment
within it is cleaned as often as necessary and good hygiene standards are
maintained. The accommodation must be capable of being thoroughly
cleaned and disinfected.
Guidance
Units must be inspected daily and kept in a clean condition, in accordance with the
documented cleaning and disinfection procedure.
Each occupied unit must be cleaned daily at a minimum.
Units must be disinfected between new occupants and when necessary.
Effective spot cleaning is permissible
10Condition
5.6 The animals must be transported and handled in a manner (including for
example in relation to housing, temperature, ventilation and frequency) that
protects them from pain, suffering, injury and disease.
Guidance
Cats must always be transported (either within the cattery or to and in a vehicle) in a
suitable, strong cat carrier.
The licence holder must demonstrate that a suitable vehicle is available to transport
cats, or if a vehicle is not provided, a contingency plan in place for emergency
transport. If more than one cat is being transported there must be suitable disease
control such as sneeze barriers between carriers
Leaving cats in vehicles must be minimalised and cats must never be left
unattended in a car or other vehicle where the temperature may pose a risk to the
animal. Consideration must be given on whether it is necessary to transport animals
when the temperature poses risk to an individual.
All vehicles and equipment must be regularly cleaned and disinfected.
Condition
5.7 All the animals must be easily accessible to staff and for inspection. There
must be sufficient light for the staff to work effectively and observe the
animals.
Guidance
Where practicable this must be natural light, but artificial light must be available.
Where artificial lighting is used, this must be within a range of 10 to 12 hours daily.
Lights must be turned off to provide a period of darkness overnight.
Condition
5.8 All resources must be provided in a way (for example as regards. frequency,
location and access points) that minimises competitive behaviour or the
dominance of individual animals.
Guidance
Where cats from the same household share a unit there must be multiples of all
resources (food, water bowls, litter trays and sleeping areas), equal or greater than
the number of cats in the unit.
Condition
5.9 The animals must not be left unattended in any situation or for any period
likely to cause them distress.
Guidance
All cats must be observed regularly throughout the day. The licence holder or
responsible person must visit the cats at regular intervals (of no more than 4 hours
apart during the working day e.g. starting at 0800, until 1800m) and as often as
necessary for the individual health, safety and welfare of each cat.
11Higher standard
All individual cats must be inspected at least once at an appropriate interval during
the out of hours period (e.g. 1800-0800).
6.0 Suitable Diet
Condition
6.1 The animals must be provided with a suitable diet in terms of quality, quantity
and frequency. Any new feeds must be introduced gradually to allow the
animals to adjust to them.
Guidance
For adult cats at least two meals a day must be offered at a minimum of 8 hours
apart, as appropriate to the individual’s requirements.
Dietary requirements, agreed with the owner, must be followed. If there are
concerns about an individual cat’s diet, veterinary advice must be sought.
One feeding and one water bowl must be provided for each cat. These must be
separate receptacles.
Food and water must be sited away from the litter tray (min 60 cm) and away from
each other.
Condition
6.2 Feed and (where appropriate) water intake must be monitored, and any
problems recorded and addressed.
Guidance
Cats must not remain inappetent (without appetite) for longer than 48 hours without
seeking veterinary advice. If the cat has any known health problems or if there are
specific concerns veterinary advice must be sought earlier
Water intake must be checked and veterinary advice sought if a cat is not drinking
or is drinking excessively.
The general condition of the cats must be observed and cats displaying significant
weight loss/gain must be evaluated by a veterinarian and treated as necessary.
Condition
6.3 Feed and drinking water provided to the animals must be unspoilt and free
from contamination.
Guidance
Dry feed must not be left out for more than 24 hours. Any wet feed not eaten must
be removed at the time of the next feeding.
Refrigeration facilities for feed storage must be provided.
Feed must be stored away from risk of vermin and in appropriately cool and dry
places.
Condition
6.4 Feed and drinking receptacles must be capable of being cleaned and
disinfected, or disposable.
12Guidance
Receptacles must be non-porous.
Receptacles must be cleaned daily and disinfected at least once a week and
between different cats. If damaged they must be disposed of.
Condition
6.5 Constant access to fresh, clean drinking water must be provided in a suitable
receptacle for the species that requires it.
Guidance
Fresh water must be provided daily in a clean container and changed or refreshed
as often as necessary.
One water bowl must be provided per cat.
Condition
6.6 Where feed is prepared on the premises, there must be hygienic facilities for
its preparation, including a working surface, hot and cold running water and
storage.
Guidance
In establishments where staff are employed a separate hand wash basin with an
adequate supply of hot and cold water must be provided for them to wash their
hands. This must be connected to a suitable drainage system.
Soap and hygienic hand drying facilities must also be available.
7.0 Monitoring of behaviour and training of animals
Condition
7.1 Active and effective environmental enrichment must be provided to the
animals in inside and any outside environments.
Guidance
Provision will include opportunities to scratch, play and exhibit predatory behaviour
provided by toys, puzzle feeders, scratching posts and hiding places.
Higher Standard
Provision must include a choice of hiding places and different levels/shelves.
Condition
7.2 For species whose welfare depends partly on exercise, opportunities to
exercise which benefit the animals’ physical and mental health must be
provided, unless advice from a veterinarian suggests otherwise.
Guidance
Cats must not be taken from their individual units except in an emergency or for
veterinary treatment.
Communal exercise areas are not acceptable
13Condition
7.3 The animals’ behaviour and any changes of behaviour must be monitored.
Advice must be sought, as appropriate and without delay, from a veterinarian
or, in the case of fish, any person competent to give such advice if adverse or
abnormal behaviour is detected.
Guidance
The behaviour of individual cats must be monitored daily and changes in behaviour
and/or behaviours indicative of suffering, stress, fear, aggression and anxiety must
be recorded and acted upon.
Advice must be obtained where necessary from a veterinarian who may then refer
to a suitably qualified animal behaviourist.
Higher Standard
Behavioural observations must be recorded daily.
Condition
7.4 Where used, training methods or equipment must not cause pain, suffering or
injury.
Guidance
It is unlikely cats will be trained during their stay in a boarding cattery.
Condition
7.5 All immature animals must be given suitable and adequate opportunities to—
(a) learn how to interact with people, their own species and other animals
where such interaction benefits their welfare, and
(b) become habituated to noises, objects and activities in their environment.
Guidance
Habituation and socialisation occurs early in cats – mostly before 8 weeks of age.
In a boarding cattery it is unlikely that kittens under 8 weeks old will be boarded (if
they are, they should still be with their mother). They would be very susceptible to
disease and would need an appropriate environment in which to undertake such
learning.
8.0 Animal Handling and Interactions
Condition
8.1 All people responsible for the care of the animals must be competent in the
appropriate handling of each animal to protect it from pain, suffering, injury or
disease.
Guidance
Cats must always be handled humanely and appropriately to suit the requirements
of the individual cat and to minimise stress and distress, such as anxiety, fear,
frustration and pain. Cats must never be punished so that they are frightened or
exhibit aversive behaviour.
People must have the competence to handle cats correctly and be able to identify
cats that are anxious or fearful about contact.
14 Scruffing of cats (picking up a cat by the scruff of its neck) must not be done except
as an absolute last resort
Condition
8.2 The animals must be kept separately or in suitable compatible social groups
appropriate to the species and individual animals. No animals from a social
species may be isolated or separated from others of their species for any
longer than is necessary.
Guidance
Cats from different households must never share a unit. Where cats from the same
household share a unit, the owner’s written authorisation must be obtained and cats
must be monitored. Consent from the owner must also include authority for
separating cats, should problems arise.
Higher Standard
Where more than one cat share a unit daily behavioural observations are recorded
– these should especially focus on any signs of stress/aggression.
Condition
8.3 The animals must have at least daily opportunities to interact with people
where such interaction benefits their welfare.
Guidance
Cats must receive human interactions specific and appropriate to the individual cat,
and its needs reassessed daily.
A cat must never be forced to interact with a person/people, and a cat must be able
to avoid people should it wish.
9.0 Protection from Pain, Suffering, Injury and Disease
Condition
9.1 Written procedures must—
(a) be in place and implemented covering—
(i) feeding regimes,
(ii) cleaning regimes,
(iii)transportation,
(iv)the prevention of, and control of the spread of, disease,
(v) monitoring and ensuring the health and welfare of all the animals,
(vi)the death or escape of an animal (including the storage of carcasses);
(b) be in place covering the care of the animals following the suspension or
revocation of the licence or during and following an emergency.
Guidance
The procedures must demonstrate how the conditions outlined in this guidance are
met.
15Conditions
9.2 All people responsible for the care of the animals must be made fully aware of
these procedures.
9.3 Appropriate isolation, in separate self-contained facilities, must be available
for the care of sick, injured or potentially infectious animals.
Guidance
Provision must be made for the isolation of sick/injured/infectious cats and those
that might reasonably expected to be carrying serious infectious diseases.
Where isolation facilities are provided by an attending veterinary practice, a letter
must be provided by the practice stating that they are prepared to provide such
facilities. If a cat is not taken to a veterinary practice, but kept at the cattery for
anything more than 12 hours, the isolation facilities must follow the same size and
facility requirements as a normal cattery unit.
Protective clothing and footwear must be worn when handling cats in the isolation
facility, and cleaning protocols adhered to. Whilst in use, the clothing must be kept
in the isolation unit and not be removed other than for cleaning and disinfection.
Protective garments must be changed and laundered with an appropriate
disinfectant/ disposed of immediately after handling a cat with a suspected
infectious disease.
Separate feeding and water bowls, litter trays, litter, a dedicated safe cat basket,
bedding and cleaning utensils must be stored in the isolation unit ready for
immediate use.
Any cats in the isolation facility must be checked as frequently as other cats as a
minimum and unless a separate person is caring for them, they must be visited after
the other cats.
Higher Standard
Designated on site isolation facilities must be available and must follow the same
size and facility requirements as normal cattery unit.
Condition
9.4 All reasonable precautions must be taken to prevent and control the spread
among the animals and people of infectious diseases, pathogens and
parasites.
Guidance
An up-to-date veterinary vaccination record must be seen to ensure that cats have
current vaccinations against feline parvovirus also known as feline infectious
enteritis, feline panleukopenia and against feline respiratory viruses (feline
herpesvirus and feline calicivirus).
Certification from a veterinarian of a recent protective titre test may be accepted
instead of a booster vaccination as required by the establishment. The certificate
must state that it is valid for the current period. It is up to the licensee whether to
accept such a certificate.
Vaccines used must be licensed for use in the UK. Homoeopathic vaccination is
not acceptable.
16 If there is evidence of external parasites (fleas, ticks, lice) the cat must be treated
with a product authorised by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) and
licensed for use in the UK. Treatment must only be after consultation and as
directed by a veterinarian and / or with written consent from the owner or
nominated person
Condition
9.5 All excreta and soiled bedding for disposal must be stored and disposed of in
a hygienic manner and in accordance with any relevant legislation.
Guidance
This must be in a clearly-marked bin which is emptied either daily or when full,
whichever is the sooner. Excreta must be removed in accordance with the
documented cleaning and disinfection procedure.
Storage of excreta must be away from areas where animals or food is kept.
Condition
9.6 Sick or injured animals must receive prompt attention from a veterinarian or,
in the case of fish, an appropriately competent person and the advice of that
veterinarian or, in the case of fish, that competent person must be followed.
Guidance
When a cat is suspected of being ill or injured a veterinarian must be contacted for
advice immediately and any instructions for treatment recorded. Further advice
must be sought if there is ongoing concern.
The owner of the animal or nominated person must be contacted.
Condition
9.7 Where necessary, animals must receive preventative treatment by an
appropriately competent person.
Guidance
Any preventative treatment must be administered with the consent of the owner and
under the direction of the veterinarian
Condition
9.8 The licence holder must register with a veterinarian with an appropriate level
of experience in the health and welfare requirements of any animals specified
in the licence and the contact details of that veterinarian must be readily
available to all staff on the premises used for the licensable activity.
Guidance
The name, address and telephone contact number, including out of hours provision,
of the veterinarian used by the establishment must be displayed in a prominent
place, close to the telephone and accessible to all members of staff. The veterinary
practice must be in a reasonable travel distance.
Written consent between the cat owner and licence holder must be obtained with
regards to which veterinarian is to be used when cat is first placed with licence
holder
17Condition
9.9 Prescribed medicines must be stored safely and securely to safeguard
against unauthorised access, at the correct temperature, and used in
accordance with the instructions of the veterinarian.
Guidance
All courses must be completed to the specifications given by the veterinarian.
Any unused medications must be returned to the owner or prescribing vet.
A fridge must be available to store medicine which requires being kept at certain low
temperatures.
Conditions
9.10 Medicines other than prescribed medicines must be stored, used and
disposed of in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer or
veterinarian.
9.11 Cleaning products must be suitable, safe and effective against pathogens that
pose a risk to the animals. They must be used, stored and disposed of in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and used in a way which
prevents distress or suffering of the animals.
Guidance
Cleaning and disinfection products must be non-toxic and compatible with other
products used. Extra care must be taken to use products not toxic to cats which
may be safe for other animals, for example, phenolic disinfectants.
Staff using cleaning products must be competent in the safe use of detergents and
fluids. Cleaning products must be kept entirely out of the reach of animals, and must
never be left in the cat unit.
Any equipment that has been used on an infectious or suspected infectious animal
must be cleaned and disinfected after use or disposed of.
9.12 No person may euthanase an animal except a veterinarian or a person who
has been authorised by a veterinarian as competent for such purpose or—
(a) in the case of fish, a person who is competent for such purpose;
(b) in the case of horses, a person who is competent, and who holds a licence
or certificate, for such purpose.
Guidance
Only a veterinarian can euthanase a cat
Euthanasia must be humane and effective.
The licence holder must keep a record of all euthanasia and the identity of the
qualified veterinarian that carried it out. Unless imperative for the welfare of the cat,
euthanasia must not take place until consent is given by the owner or nominated
contact
Condition
9.13 All animals must be checked at least once daily or more regularly as
necessary to check for any signs of pain, suffering, injury, disease or
18abnormal behaviour. Vulnerable animals must be checked more frequently.
Any signs of pain, suffering, injury, disease or abnormal behaviour must be
recorded and the advice and further advice (if necessary) of a veterinarian (or
in the case of fish, of an appropriately competent person) must be sought and
followed.
Guidance
Presence or absence of faeces and urine must be monitored daily. Any
abnormalities must be recorded and acted upon as appropriate.
Cats staying long-term (staying for over three weeks) must be checked for weight-
loss or gain and, if there are any concerns, advice must be sought from a
veterinarian.
10.0 Emergencies
Condition
10.1 A written emergency plan, acceptable to the local authority, must be in place,
known and available to all the people on the premises used for the licensable
activity, and followed where necessary to ensure appropriate steps are taken
to protect all the people and animals on the premises in case of fire or in case
of breakdowns for essential heating, ventilation and aeration or filtration
systems or other emergencies.
Guidance
Entrances and fire exits must be clear of obstructions at all times.
Suitable firefighting, prevention and detection equipment must be provided and
maintained in good working order. Any buildings must have at least one working
smoke detector (or other suitable fire detection system) installed in a suitable
location on each separate level / floor of the property and, where appropriate, there
must be at least one carbon monoxide detector
An emergency drill programme must be in place with annual testing, or as
determined by fire risk assessments. All new members of staff must have this as
part of their induction programme.
There must be a plan for accommodation of the cats should the premises become
uninhabitable.
There must be a documented policy in place for dealing with extremes of
temperature and weather conditions (both hot and cold).
All electrical installations must be installed by appropriately qualified persons and
maintained in a safe condition; and sited such that they do not present a risk.
All equipment must be maintained in a good state of repair and serviced according
to manufacturer’s guidelines.
Conditions
10.2 The plan must include details of the emergency measures to be taken for the
extrication of the animals should the premises become uninhabitable and an
emergency telephone list that includes the fire service and police.
10.3 External doors and gates must be lockable.
1910.4 A designated key holder with access to all animal areas must at all times be
within reasonable travel distance of the premises and available to attend in an
emergency.
Guidance
In a non-domestic setting, an emergency contact name / number must be displayed
on the outside of the premises.
A reasonable distance would, in normal conditions, be interpreted as no more than
30 minutes travelling time.
Higher Standard
A competent person must be on site at all times.
20Part B – Specific conditions: providing boarding in
catteries for cats (Schedule 4, Part 1 of the Regulations)
2.0 Suitable environment
Condition
2.1 Cats within the premises to which the licence relates must be prevented from
coming into direct contact with other animals from outside the premises.
Guidance
Sneeze barriers must be in place on the end walls of the exercise run, and at each
end of the cattery block to prevent contact with animals from outside.
Condition
2.2 There must be a safe, secure, waterproof roof over the entire cat unit.
Guidance
For the exercise run, materials used must be capable of filtering UV light and
providing adequate shade.
Conditions
2.3 A cat unit may only be shared by cats from the same household.
2.4 Communal exercise areas are not permitted.
2.5 Each cat unit must be clearly numbered and there must be a system in place
which ensures that information about the cat or cats in each cat unit is
available to all staff and any inspector.
Guidance
A one page synopsis of the cat or cats must be outside of each unit or kept in an
easy to locate manner. This must include the name of the cat, the age, sex and any
relevant medical, behavioural or dietary information.
2.6 Each cat unit must provide the cat with sufficient space to—
(a) walk,
(b) turn around,
(c) stand on its hind legs,
(d) hold its tail erect,
(e) climb,
(f) rest on the elevated area; and
(g) lie down fully stretched out
without touching another cat or its walls.
Guidance
The size of a cat unit includes the sleeping area plus the run area. These sizes are
outlined below
Size of full height walk-in unit sleeping accommodation (see appendix). The
following minimum areas and dimensions must be achieved in order to give cats a
21suitable and appropriate comfortable space and for ease of cleaning and
management.
Size of sleeping area in full-height walk-in unit
Min area Smallest dimension Min height
One cat* 0.85m2 0.9m (e.g. 0.9m x 0.95m) 1.8m
Up to 2 cats 1.5m2 1.2m (e.g. 1.2m x 1.25 m) 1.8m
Up to 4 cats 1.9 m2 1.92 m (e.g. 1.2m x 1.6m) 1.8m
*For new builds the ‘one cat’ size option has been removed.
Size of penthouse sleeping accommodation (an enclosed boxed sleeping area or
pod raised off the ground – see appendix). The pod needs to be high enough off the
ground to be able to clean underneath but not too high as to make cleaning inside
the box difficult.
The following minimum areas and dimensions must be achieved in order to give
cats a suitable and appropriate comfortable space and for ease of cleaning and
management.
Size of penthouse sleeping accommodation
Min area Smallest dimension Min height
One cat* 0.85m2 0.9m (e.g. 0.9m x 0.95m) 1m
Up to 2 cats 1.1m2 0.9m (e.g. 0.9m x 1.20 m) 1m
Up to 4 cats 1.7 m2 0.9 m (e.g. 0.9m x 1.9m) 1m
* For new builds the ‘one cat’ size option has been removed
Facilities must be easily accessible and provide safe easy access (ramp/steps) to
the penthouse. Extra consideration must be given for elderly, ill, very young or
disabled cats.
Size of exercise run for full height walk-in unit and penthouse style unit* (see
appendix). The following minimum areas and dimensions must be achieved in order
to give cats a suitable and appropriate comfortable space and for ease of cleaning
and management.
Size of exercise run for full height walk-in unit and penthouse style unit
Min area Smallest dimension Min height
One cat* 1.65m2 0.9m (e.g. 0.9m x 1.85m) 1.8 m
Up to 2 cats 2.2m2 1.2m (e.g. 1.2m x 1.85 m) 1.8 m
Up to 4 cats 2.8 m2 1.2 m (e.g. 1.2m x 2.35m) 1.8 m
For new builds the measurement of the run area for penthouse units must include
only the area in front of the penthouse (not that underneath it) as cats do not use
this area. The ‘one cat’ size option has also been removed for new builds. Older
catteries will have one cat size units and shorter runs and this is acceptable. New
builds must use the bigger dimensions.
Higher Standard
Units must be 1.5 times the minimum sizes stated.
22Condition
2.7 Each cat unit must have sufficient space for each cat to sit, rest, eat and drink
away from the area where it urinates and defecates.
Guidance
Each unit must have space to allow for at least 60 cm separation between the litter
tray, resting place and feeding area. This allows cats to sit, rest and eat away from
areas where they urinate and defecate.
Condition
2.8 Cats must have constant access to their sleeping area.
Guidance
A raised bed may aid in the avoidance of draughts. All beds and bedding areas
must be kept clean, dry and parasite free.
Bedding must be made of a material that is easy to wash/disinfect, or be
disposable.
Bedding must be changed, cleaned and disinfected between cats.
A cat must not be left without bedding, unless instructed otherwise by the cat’s
owner. Soft bedding materials must be provided and adapted if necessary for old,
young or infirm cats to help regulate their body temperature.
Access between the exercise and sleeping accommodation must be through a
securely fitted and suitably sized cat flap which is capable of being securely
propped open if necessary.
Condition
2.9 A litter tray must be provided at all times in each cat unit. A safe and
absorbent litter material must be provided. Litter trays must be regularly
cleaned and disinfected.
Guidance
In a multiple cat unit, the number of trays must be appropriate to the number of cats.
Trays must be impermeable, easy to clean and disinfect, or be disposable. The tray
must be large enough (average size is 30 x 42 cm) to let the cat turn around and the
litter deep enough (a minimum of 3 cm is recommended) to allow digging activity.
Loose sawdust, shredded or sheet newspaper, or soil, are not considered
acceptable as litter material.
Condition
2.10 Each cat unit must include an elevated area.
Guidance
These must be large enough for a cat to lie on and be available in the sleeping
accommodation or the run.
Facilities must be available to provide safe easy access to elevated areas for
elderly, ill, very young or disabled cats if required.
23Higher Standard
Each cat must have access to at least two raised areas – one of which must be in
the sleeping area and one must be in the exercise area.
Condition
2.11 Adjoining cat units must have solid barriers covering the full height and full
width of the adjoining wall.
Guidance
For new builds sneeze barriers must be at a minimum translucent (allowing light to
pass through, but only diffusely so that objects on the other side cannot be clearly
distinguished) to reduce stress caused by cats seeing one another.
New build using gaps between units must have a full height full width translucent
sneeze barrier on one side of the gap.
Higher Standard
There must be completely opaque sneeze barriers rather than translucent up to
600mm and behind any shelves.
Condition
2.12 Any gaps between cat units must be a minimum of 0.6 metres wide.
Guidance
Most modern catteries use full height sneeze barrier between units rather than gaps
because it reduces the build size. The width of the corridor between facing units
must be at least 1.2m. If the width of a corridor is less than 1.2m sneeze barriers
must be applied to the front of the units
Condition
2.13 Any cat taken out of a cat unit must be secured in a suitable carrier.
Guidance
A spare cat carrier must be kept at the cattery for situations where owners do not
arrive with their cat in a secure carrier.
2.14 The sleeping area must form part of the cat unit and be free from draughts.
3.0 Monitoring of behaviour and training
Condition
3.1 There must be an area within the unit in which the cat can avoid seeing other
cats and people if it so chooses.
Guidance
Cats must be provided with a hiding place. This can be as simple as providing a
cardboard box, an igloo-type bed or other structures within the unit. Leaving the
cat’s own carrier in the unit can provide a familiar place to hide.
Condition
3.2 Each cat unit must include a facility for scratching. Any surface within a cat
unit available for scratching must either be disinfected between uses by
different cats or disposed of.
24Guidance
Each cat must have access to a tall sturdy scratching facility. If provided by the
owner it must be kept within that cat’s unit and used solely for that cat and returned
to the owner and the end of the cat’s stay.
Conditions
3.3 All cats must be provided with toys or feeding enrichment (or both) unless
advice from a veterinarian suggests otherwise.
3.4 All toys and other enrichment items must be checked daily to ensure they
remain safe and must be cleaned and disinfected at least weekly.
Guidance
If provided by the owner, toys or feeding enrichment equipment must be kept within
that cat’s unit and used solely for that cat and returned to the owner and the end of
the cat’s stay.
All toys and enrichment equipment must be cleaned and disinfected between
different cats.
4.0 Records
Condition
4.1 A register must be kept of all the cats on the premises which must include—
(a) the dates of each cat’s arrival and departure,
(b) each cat’s name, age, sex, neuter status and a description of it or its
breed,
(c) each cat’s microchip number, where applicable,
(d) the number of any cats from the same household,
(e) a record of which cats (if any) are from the same household,
(f) the name, postal address, telephone number and email address of the
owner of each cat and emergency contact details,
(g) in relation to each cat, the name, postal address, telephone number and
email address of a local contact in an emergency,
(h) the name and contact details of each cat’s normal veterinarian and details
of any insurance relating to the cat,
(i) details of each cat’s relevant medical and behavioural history, including
details of any treatment administered against parasites and restrictions on
exercise,
(j) details of each cat’s diet and related requirements,
(k) any required consent forms,
(l) a record of the date or dates of each cat’s most recent vaccination,
worming and flea treatments, and
(m) details of any medical treatment each cat is receiving.
25Guidance
Consent forms must cover veterinary treatment, consent to share or separate cats if
needed, consent regarding toys / interaction preferences, record of baskets/items
left at the cattery.
5.0 Protection from pain, injury, suffering and disease
Conditions
5.1 A cat must remain in its assigned cat unit, except when it is moved to an
isolation cat unit or to a holding cat unit.
5.2 Where any other activity involving animals is undertaken on the premises, it
must be kept entirely separate from the area where the activity of providing
boarding for cats takes place.
Guidance
Units housing rescue/breeding cats must be separated by a door or solid partition.
Extra precautions must be taken to prevent the spread of disease. Ideally a
separate member of staff should attend to these cats.
Higher Standard
Where applicable, there must be a completely separate unit for any other activities
such as rescue or breeding.
Conditions
5.3 All equipment must be cleaned and disinfected before a cat is first introduced
into a cat unit.
5.4 A preventative healthcare plan agreed with the veterinarian with whom the
licence holder has registered under paragraph 9(8) of Schedule 2 must be
implemented.
5.5 A holding cat unit must only be used in an emergency and must not be used
for longer than is necessary and in any event for no longer than a total of 12
hours in any 24-hour period.
5.6 In this paragraph, “holding cat unit” means a cat unit, separate from any
other cat unit, in which a cat may be housed temporarily.
26Cattery Units
Sleeping Run Safety
area area corridor
Figure 1 - Cross section of a cattery unit showing the sleeping area (which can be
full height or penthouse – see below) and safety corridor.
27Figure 2- Full height walk -in sleeping area, opening Figure 3- Penthouse sleeping area opening into the run area
into the run area.
28Figure 4 and 5 - Examples of outdoor cattery facilities
Sleep Sleep Sleep Sleep
Exercise Exercise Exercise Exercise
Run Run Run Run
Mesh front
Not to scale
Figure 6 - Example layout of outdoor cattery, with indoor sleeping area and individual covered outdoor
run areas.
Figure 6:These are accessed
Example layoutindividually
of outdoorfrom a covered
cattery, outdoor
with indoorsafety corridor.
sleeping There
area andareindividual
full height
solid sneeze barriers (blue line) between cat units
2960cm
gap
Sleep Sleep Sleep
Run Run Run
Safety corridor
Run
Not to scale Mesh front
Figure 7 - Some older catteries have gaps between cat units (min. 60cm). If newly
built, there must be a full height sneeze barrier on one side of the gap.
30Entrance Reception/Kitchen/Store
Run
Sleep
Not to scale
Figure 8 - Example of an indoor cattery with sleeping area and run area
all inside the building, usually accessed individually from a common
indoor corridor
31Higher Standards
For each activity, a number of higher standards have been agreed. Meeting the higher
standards is optional but is the only way to gain a higher star rating. The higher standards
are classified in to two types: required and optional and are outlined in the relevant
guidance documents for the activity in question. To distinguish required standards from
optional ones they have each been given a specific colour which is used in each guidance
document. Higher standards that appear in blue text are required, whereas those that
appear in red text are optional. To qualify as meeting the higher standards, the business
needs to achieve all of the required higher standards as well as a minimum of 50% of the
optional higher standards. During an inspection, the inspector should assess whether or
not the business meets the required number of higher standards
Required
Staffing levels will be up to 1 full-time equivalent attendant per 20 cats kept or a
higher ratio of qualified staff.
Cats must be provided with a design and layout that provides them with choice. This
can be achieved by, for example, inclusion of raised platforms.
Temperature in the sleeping environment must be above 18°C.
All individual cats must be inspected at least once at an appropriate interval during
the out of hours period (e.g. 1800-0800).
Where more than one cat share a unit daily behavioural observations are recorded
– these should especially focus on any signs of stress/aggression.
A competent person must be on site at all times.
Units must be 1.5 times the minimum sizes stated.
Each cat must have access to at least two raised areas – one of which must be in
the sleeping area and one must be in the exercise area.
There must be completely opaque sneeze barriers rather than translucent up to
600mm and behind any shelves.
Where applicable, there must be a completely separate unit for any other activities
such as rescue or breeding.
Optional
A member of staff with an OFQUAL regulated Level 3 qualification in a relevant
subject must be present during the working day.
Ventilation must be a managed, fixed or portable, air system to ensure appropriate
temperatures are maintained in all weathers. This can be an air conditioning unit or
use of removable fans.
Provision must include a choice of hiding places and different levels/shelves.
Behavioural observations must be recorded daily.
Designated on site isolation facilities must be available and must follow the same
size and facility requirements as normal cattery unit.
32© Crown copyright 2018
You may re-use this information (excluding logos) free of charge in any format or medium,
under the terms of the Open Government Licence v.3. To view this licence visit
www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3/ or email
PSI@nationalarchives.gsi.gov.uk
Any enquiries regarding this publication should be sent to us at:
animal.welfare@defra.gsi.gov.uk
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